Growth and Development

Is My Son's Voice Changing Too Soon?

My son is 10 and I think his voice is already starting to change. I'm worried — and he's self-conscious — because none of the other boys his age are experiencing this. Is he hitting puberty too soon?
- Jillian

When boys and girls begin puberty, the larynx (voice box) grows larger and thicker. It happens in both boys and girls, but the change is more evident in boys. Girls' voices only deepen by a couple of tones and the change is barely noticeable. Boys' voices, however, start to get significantly deeper.

When a boy reaches puberty, the production of testosterone increases (just as estrogen production increases in girls). Testosterone, which is produced in the testicles and then travels through the blood throughout the body, causes the cartilage of his larynx to grow. Along with the larynx, the vocal cords grow significantly longer and become thicker. In addition, the facial bones begin to grow. Cavities in the sinuses, the nose, and the back of the throat grow bigger, creating more space in the face and giving the voice more room to resonate.

Each child develops at a different pace, so a boy's voice might change anywhere between ages 11 and 14½, usually just after the major growth spurt. Some boys' voices change gradually, whereas others' change quickly.

If your son is concerned, stressed, or embarrassed about the sound of his voice, let him know that it's only temporary and that everyone goes through it to some extent. After a few months, he'll likely have the resonant, deep, and full voice of an adult!

Videos

HPV Vaccine for Girls and Boys 00:00:30

3.5.15

Protect your kids from certain cancers and other diseases caused by human papillomavirus, or HPV. Get your girls and boys vaccinated when they are 11 or 12, or as soon as possible if they’re already 13 or older. The vaccine is a series of three doses. Be sure your child completes the whole series for the best protection. If you have questions...

Vaccine is the best way to prevent seasonal flu. Everyone 6 months of age and older should get the flu vaccine each year, whether it’s as a shot or as a nasal spray. Your healthcare provider can help you choose the right form. Get the vaccine for your family as soon as you are able, and be sure to ask anyone who takes care of your child to get the...

What's New

About This Site

Seattle Children’s provides healthcare without regard to race, color, religion (creed), sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin (ancestry) or disability. Financial assistance for medically necessary services is based on family income and hospital resources and is provided to children under age 21 whose primary residence is in Washington, Alaska, Montana or Idaho.